Circuit Training

“Proper conditioning provides players with the physical and Psychological foundation to meet the requirements of the game. In order to carry out the technical and tactical demands of the game, players must be physically and mentally fit. Without fitness, technique and tactics soon disappear from the game.” (USSF, 2003)

The goal of soccer specific fitness training is to develop player’s capacity to perform at high intensities. VO2 max and Lactate Threshold mark the human limitations to performance. When a player constantly is surpassing the Lactate threshold, and if the aerobic system is not able to recuperated quick enough, then fatigue will settle. Physical and mental fatigue will diminish technique greatly, and without an adequate technique, tactics are soon to have a negative effect.

VO2 max and Lactate Threshold can be improved and farther develop with Interval Circuit Training. Aerobic Low Intensity and Aerobic High intensity are crucial to sustain indirectly the energy systems used in the anaerobic state. For Interval Circuit Training to be effective is fundamental to have a good Aerobic Base.

Heart Rate (USSF “B” Manual, 2003. Pg 42)

Heart Rate

Heart Rate

Heart Rate

Heart Rate

Type of Training

% Of MHR

% Of MHR

BMP

BMP

Mean

Range

Mean

Range

Recovery

65%

40% – 80%

130

80 – 160

Aerobic LI

80%

65% – 90%

160

130 – 180

Aerobic HI

90%

80% – 100%

180

160 – 200

Fixed Time Intervals (USSF “B” manual, 2003. Pg 43)

Exercise

Rest

Heart Rate

A

30 seconds

30 Seconds

90% – 100%

B

2 minutes

1 minute

85% – 95%

C

4 minutes

1 minute

80% – 90%

Aerobic High Intensity Training

During this type of training, the coach most be careful not to exceed the Aerobic HI training. If the intensity if too high then the training could become exclusively speed training. For Aerobic HI training to be effective, players most be able to continue to work at high intensity for the duration of the Interval training. (USSF “B” Manual, 2003. Pg 43)

Note: Speed training guidelines should only apply to U15 and up. U12 – U14 teams should reduce the speed training distance in half. U12 and bellow should incorporate their speed training into their regular soccer training.